Goodman GMVM970803BN Error Code E2: Low Stage Pressure Switch Stuck Open

What Does Code E2 Mean?

An E2 code on the Goodman GMVM970803BN means the low-stage pressure switch did not close after the inducer motor started. When a heating call begins, the Integrated Control Module energizes the VFD-controlled inducer, which creates negative pressure in the heat exchanger and venting system. That negative pressure is supposed to pull the low-stage pressure switch closed, proving to the board that combustion gases can be vented safely. If the switch does not close within the expected time, the board halts the sequence before ignition, and the inducer keeps running — so you hear the furnace working but get no heat.

This is the opposite failure from E1 on the same board. E2 is the low-stage switch stuck OPEN / not closing after the inducer runs; E1 is the low-stage switch stuck CLOSED before the cycle even starts. Because E2 is about draft never building, its causes cluster around anything that blocks airflow or bleeds off the pressure signal, whereas E1 usually points at the switch or its wiring.

The most common E2 causes are physical blockages in the venting system: a blocked or restricted flue pipe, a clogged condensate drain that backs water into the pressure switch area, or a cracked or pinched pressure switch hose that leaks away the signal. Bird nests, ice, snow, or debris in the exhaust or intake pipes are frequent culprits, especially after the furnace has sat idle through warmer months. A weak or failing inducer that cannot generate enough negative pressure, a blocked H-fitting atmospheric port, or a switch whose set point no longer matches spec can also trigger the code.

Because diagnosing E2 involves the venting and combustion-air system, it is a professional job. Left unresolved, repeated failures to close can also escalate the furnace into an E0 lockout, since ignition can never proceed.

What You'll Notice

• The inducer motor runs continuously but the burners never light and no heat is produced
• The control module displays E2 and a ComfortNet thermostat shows "Call for Service" / "Check Furnace"
• The problem often appears at the start of the heating season after the furnace was idle
• You may see or suspect a blocked exhaust/intake termination, or water pooling near the furnace
• The furnace may eventually escalate to an E0 lockout if the switch keeps failing to close

Common Causes

How This Is Diagnosed

A technician treats E2 as "draft never proven" and works the airflow path. With the inducer running, they check whether the low-stage switch is seeing the expected negative pressure by inspecting the pressure switch hose for cracks, kinks, disconnection, or trapped water, and confirming the flue and intake pipes are clear and properly terminated. Blocked terminations, a clogged condensate drain, or a plugged H-fitting atmospheric port are common findings.

If the venting path and hose are clear, the technician measures the actual negative pressure at the switch tap and compares it to the switch set point. That distinguishes a weak inducer that cannot build enough draft from a switch whose contacts or set point have drifted. The switch or inducer is then replaced with the correct part as needed.

When to Call a Professional

This code involves components that are not homeowner-serviceable, so have a licensed HVAC technician diagnose and repair it. Keep in mind:

• The inducer runs nonstop but the furnace never ignites
• The exhaust or intake termination looks blocked by debris, a nest, ice, or snow
• There is standing water near the furnace or a slow/clogged condensate drain
• E2 keeps returning, or the furnace has begun escalating to an E0 lockout
• The pressure switch hose appears cracked, pinched, disconnected, or full of moisture

✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026